Thomson Reuters revises staff social media guidelines

They apply to "employees and contractors who create or contribute to blogs, wikis, social networks, virtual worlds or other social media. Whether you use Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Yammer, Wikipedia or MySpace - or comment on blogs or online media stories - these guidelines are for you".

Adherence to the group's Code of Business Conduct and Ethics and the Trust Principles are among the basic principles for staff who use social media.

"Be accurate, honest and genuine and take responsibility for your mistakes,” staff are told. “A conversational, personal tone often works best - similar to how you'd speak. If you make a mistake, or someone questions a statement or claim you make, it's your responsibility to investigate it. If appropriate, you should quickly correct any mistakes or provide any necessary clarifications."

Employees are instructed to respect others in their posts and discussions. “Social media networks and online communications shouldn't be used to attack or insult Thomson Reuters, fellow employees, customers, vendors, contractors, suppliers, competitors or others.

“Be sensible. Don't make posts or comments that may be considered defamatory, obscene, libelous, threatening, harassing or embarrassing to others.”

Staff must not comment on Thomson Reuters legal matters, stock price, financial performance, competitors, strategy or rumours unless specifically authorised to do so. 

Incidental personal use of Thomson Reuters computer  systems at work may be acceptable under certain circumstances, but excessive use for social media networks, personal blogging or creating other types of online content could result in the company limiting employees’ ability to engage in these activities during work time and/or taking disciplinary action. 

“If you violate these guidelines, we may require you to correct, edit or remove a post or statement. In addition, violations of these guidelines by employees can result in disciplinary action, including termination of employment.” ■